Vitality of High Streets

Navin Shah: Following my oral question on this topic at the last Mayor’s Question Time meeting, the latest figures show the worst retail sales in 23 years – with sales down by 0.6% according to national statistics. Is it not time to accept that the measures to stop the decimation of high streets nationally and in London are not working and are unlikely to work? Don’t you agree that an exhaustive examination is required to ‘reinvent’ high streets so that they are fit for purpose?

The Mayor: The traditional high street and its civic, social and economic mix is changing. Austerity and the spread of internet retailing are driving significant changes. Many of our high streets and town centres are coming under increasing strain and need to develop comprehensive and tailored strategies to adapt and survive in light of the new and emerging realities.
My London Plan calls for the adaptation and diversification of town centres and strongly advocates a strategic approach. My forthcoming High Streets - Adaptive Strategies report will support London boroughs, the business community and other high street custodians to respond to this call. It highlights and builds on a series of ambitious and innovative strategies for adaptation and renewal already taking place in London. It draws on case studies to showcase innovative approaches and proposes a range of principles and practices to underpin the development of adaptive strategies for renewal.
I will also continue to lobby government to bring about business rate reform and devolution and to follow up on the promise of a digital sales tax; both things which disadvantage bricks and mortar retail.